The history of the wedding favor dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries when the European aristocracy had established the custom of giving expensive and beautiful unique wedding gifts to their wedding guests. In those times the wedding favor box was meant to be a beautiful receptacle for the sugar confectioneries (which were very expensive). The wedding favor box itself was very ornate and beautiful - often encrusted with precious stones and gold engraving.

Today wedding favor boxes might not be so ornate. However, they can still be extremely special both for the newly wedded couple as well as the guests. There are many uses for the favor boxes at weddings today as well:

1. Candy bars or chocolate favors - you could indeed order or have it home made, candy and sweets in the shape of heart or any other symbol that represents the new couple. The wedding favor box wrapping can be an excellent way to package such goodies because after the sweets are consumed, the box would still evoke sweet memories.

2. Gifts - you could use favor boxes to house your inexpensive wedding favors. No matter what you choose as a wedding favor, an ornate box would definitely enhance the effect of the gift. Many people choose a theme at the wedding. Accordingly, you would be able to get special boxes which not only match with the overall theme but also add a little magic to the occasion.

3. Choices - the wedding favor box itself can be a gift. There are so many out there in all shapes and sizes. These could be used to store trinkets and small valuable things. If you like you could gift just the box with a pouch of potpourri to you guests. You could also engrave the favor it with the date of the wedding for a lasting effect and memory.

4. Material - depending upon your decision on how to use the wedding favor box, you could choose the appropriate material. There are boxes made of wood, silver, pewter, terracotta, porcelain and so on. Each one of them would be ideal for a certain type of gift - you should take your time and choose the one that you find the most suitable for your use.

5. Cost - as with different materials, the cost would also differ. You would, with a little research, find plenty of information on the cost of such boxes. Compare the costs offline and online and settle for the best available price for wholesale favors if you have a large wedding, only after you are assured of the quality.

Bride and groom looking to plan your wedding online? Jen Carter, owner of My Wedding Blog, offers free information on wedding planning.